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Why does the Kohen Gadol sometimes function with different requirements and restrictions? The shiur develops a fundamental chakira that the Kohen Gadol operates in two distinct modes: as a kli haMishkan (holy vessel) and as melech of avodah (king of service). This dual nature explains apparent contradictions in garment requirements, anointing protocols, and why Yom Kippur specifically requires achieving the level of Aharon himself.
This shiur presents a groundbreaking analysis of the dual nature of the Kohen Gadol's role, addressing several complex questions from Talmudic and Halachic literature. The central thesis proposes that the Kohen Gadol functions in two distinct capacities: as a kli haMishkan (vessel of the Mishkan) and as the melech of avodah (king of Divine service). The discussion begins with a fascinating Midrash brought in Teshuvot HaRosh regarding Nadav and Avihu's death in Parshat Acharei Mos. The Midrash states they died because they were mechuser begadim (lacking in garments) - specifically missing the me'il. The Rosh's questioner asks: since they were ordinary kohanim (kohanim hedyot), why would they need the me'il, which is only worn by the Kohen Gadol? The Rosh answers that since Nadav and Avihu had meshicha (anointing), they required eight garments like a Kohen Gadol.
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Parshat Acharei Mot
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